Oftentimes, despite our best intentions, what we set out to achieve, whether it be a large initiative spanning multiple states or a small project we have set for ourselves, does not end up being what we actually accomplish. Sometimes efforts fail due to unforeseen or insurmountable circumstances, but sometimes, it is a result of a failure to consider the context or to critically evaluate some of our assumptions. Over the last year, Orange Sparkle Ball has become increasingly involved in the world of networks and the measuring and understanding of a community. This has value on many levels, not least of which is that any program operates within the context of its surroundings, and striving to understand those can go a long way toward building things that actually achieve your attended goals.
In the article "The Lies We Tell Ourselves" from Connective Tissue, the author reflects on similar ideas. He discusses the dichotomy between intention and reality in those in the upper echelons seeking to enact change without truly understanding or coexisting with those they are trying to help. In particular, he talks about how pointless it can be to try and encourage civic change without considering the economic aspect of the community. How effective will a program be if those you are hoping to engage and otherwise would enthusiastically participate are instead struggling to make ends meet? Time and many efforts have shown: not very. Oftentimes, there is a tendency among those who want to help to rationalize their contributions as being inherently beneficial, without critically assessing the actual impact on the intended community. This self-deception can lead to a disconnect between the program's goals and the real needs of the community, resulting in initiatives that are well-intentioned but ultimately ineffective.
To avoid such pitfalls, it is crucial to engage with the community to understand their unique challenges, cultural dynamics, and economic conditions. This engagement allows for the development of programs that are not only technically sound but also socially relevant and economically viable. By aligning program objectives with the actual needs and aspirations of the community, implementers can foster greater acceptance, participation, and long-term success. Moreover, considering the economic context ensures that programs are sustainable and do not inadvertently exacerbate existing inequalities. For instance, introducing a new technology without assessing the community's economic capacity to adopt and maintain it can lead to increased disparities. A thorough understanding of the economic landscape enables the design of programs that are accessible and beneficial to all segments of the community.
At Orange Sparkle Ball, we are focused on making change happen. In order to do that, we have a 4-level approach, the top of which involves considering the surrounding ecosystem. We want to do more than just enact programs, we want them to accomplish what they were designed to do. By acknowledging and working to understand the broader context surrounding a program, we can strive for increased effectiveness and sustainability. By critically assessing our assumptions and engaging deeply with the community and economic environments, we can design and implement programs that truly meet the needs of those they are intended to serve, avoiding those self-deceptions highlighted in "The Lies We Tell Ourselves."
Written by Michaela Bonnett
Photo by Papaioannou Kostas on Unsplash
